possible ignition control module problem

[kaydeaux]

I have a 1990 Wellcraft excalibur with a 350 magnum. Took the boat out over the weekend. Ran it for about 45 minutes aand it stopped running. Not to crank again until the engine was cold. Mechanic said that the ignition control module was going out and that's what they did when they got hot. But he couldn't be sure because he couldn't test it. They part is expensive and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions before I buy one? Thanks

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Hi Kaydeaux,<br /><br />those are the common symptoms for a faulty module but it could also describe a faulty coil or hall effect sensor (pick up) not to mention fuel vapor lock. <br /><br />Any electric conponent can/will be effected by heat and the module is the most common offender. Unfortuately its usually a replace and hope senario although the coil, pick up and fuel vapor can be tested - I assume your mechanic has ruled these out?<br /><br />Thats why I like points.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[bomar76]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

A thunderbolt IV module is easy to check....<br />AKRiverat gave me this link.<br /> http://www.marinemechanic.com/site/page251.html

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Bomar76, that is a good basic first test sequence but it doesn't address intermittent faults which are likely heat related, it only covers a permanently dead ignition system.<br /><br />It also has (in some areas) a 'replace & hope' sequence.<br /><br /> Quote (from your link): check for 1-12 volts at white/red terminal at distributor, if zero volts replace module, if still zero volts replace module harness, if still zero volts disconnect wht/red lead from distributor and retest, if still zero volts replace ignition sensor.<br /><br />I've replaced many modules over the years and I'd love to find a definative test for them, the most accurate test is using a lab scope but often the diagnostic costs are more than the cost of the module - thats the reason I said 'replace & hope', Its often the cheapest alternative.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[bomar76]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Heat module with a hair dryer and test.<br />Spray with electronic cold spray and test.<br /><br />I test electronics all the time with these methods and it will show a heat/cold related fault every time.<br /><br />Beats throwing parts at problems.

 

[P.V.]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Let's see.... "Not to crank again, 'till the engine was cold!"... so the motor doesn't crank when hot/warm? It's not the module OR ignition!!!

 

[bomar76]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Originally posted by P.V.:<br /> Let's see.... "Not to crank again, 'till the engine was cold!"... so the motor doesn't crank when hot/warm? It's not the module OR ignition!!!

That's a valid point I missed!<br />If these really are the symptoms, the first thing the OP needs to do is get his boat away from the idiot mechanic that told him it was the module!!!!

 

[qystan]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Discovered something interesting on the Thunderolt IV.<br /><br />I was trying to start the engine, noticed that tacho was showing zero. Indicates no spark.<br /><br />Found that the ignition module connector can be partially pulled out, enough to lose connections and appear properly seated.<br /><br />My ignition module is installed on the riser.<br /><br />Take a look.

 

[kaydeaux]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

In reference to P.V. and bomar76<br /><br />I put the boat in the water, started it and let it warm up for a minute. After about 45 minutes of 55 mph, I entered a "no wake zone" and eased off the throttle. At this point the boat quit running not to start again until the engine was cool. You stated that it wasn't the module. What are your thoughts on what it could be then?

 

[kaydeaux]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Originally posted by P.V.:<br /> Let's see.... "Not to crank again, 'till the engine was cold!"... so the motor doesn't crank when hot/warm? It's not the module OR ignition!!!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />In reference to P.V. and bomar76<br /><br />I put the boat in the water, started it and let it warm up for a minute. After about 45 minutes of 55 mph, I entered a "no wake zone" and eased off the throttle. At this point the boat quit running not to start again until the engine was cool. You stated that it wasn't the module. What are your thoughts on what it could be then?

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: possible ignition control module problem

Kaydeaux, your original post stated that it wouldn't crank again. Not cranking and not starting are two different symptoms. Which one is it?